Monthly Archives: May 2012

I’m excited to see more coverage of biofeedback, which can help you interpret your body’s physical responses to stress (heart rate) usually with a device, such as a fingertip sensor, that measures the changes in temperature skin.

The tools discussed in this NYT Well blog are a sort of high-tech approach akin to relaxation techniques such as deep breathing. Computerized biofeedback gadgets have been shown to help teach relaxation and stress management exercises. They’re an important part of a holistic approach that may be helpful to people dealing with IBS, migraines and numerous other medical conditions that are influenced by stress levels. The source in this NYT Well blog story notes that kids in particular seem to respond well to this drug-free way to help treat anxiety and stress.

The Doctor’s Remedy: Biofeedback for Stress

What the Doctor Says: Biofeedback devices typically weigh only a couple of ounces and look something like an iPod. Pressing your thumb to sensors on the devices allows them to take your pulse and measure changes in your heart rate. The devices then use audible cues, flashing lights and graphics to guide you to breathe in a way that has a calming effect. Dr. Rosen prefers using the emWave brand of biofeedback devices, which he says helps his nervous patients relax before operations….MORE

This spring, bike sharing came to South by Southwest for the first time in the festival’s history—something of a late arrival, given the crowd that assembles in Austin every year. When I stopped by to check it out, I was surprised to find not the usual cruisers-for-rent but instead a collection of foldable bikes.

The chemicals embedded in our household upholstery are toxic to humans, and, according to this investigation, useless. But that’s not the news. Experts have known for some time that endocrine disruptors and other ubiquitous chemicals are linked to cancer, fetal damage, child development problems and fertility problems. The real story? It turns out that flame retardants’ whole reason for being was just to protect the tobacco industry. The “protect-people-from-fires” thing was just a smokescreen.

Talk about a mind melt! New research published in Scientific American sketches out the biology behind a brain freeze: Everyday stress disables brain function, literally shutting down the central nervous system’s command center. When the amygdala, which processes emotions, takes over, mental paralysis and panic can result.

But don’t panic! This is simply another great argument for the need for policies that promote stress reduction and a reminder of the importance of practicing mindfulness. This particular SA feature is available only to subscribers, but non-subscribers can click to read a nice summary of the research or see SA’s stress meter quiz. And everyone can check out alternahealthgrrrl posts on the science behind mindfulness and how to use it to melt your every stress levels.